Crystal Moon Rising

About the Book

Julia’s past is a constant influence on her perception of the world. Her actions are also affected by that same past. She must escape what defines and limits her in order to become the woman she is meant to be. Her journey toward the truth includes dealing with cruelty, self-doubt, abandonment and betrayal. In a moment of despair, Julia seeks the advice of her trusted aunt. Aunt Dolly provides the answers that Julia is searching for, but in trying to comfort her niece, she discloses a secret from her own past. It is this secret that sets Julia on her path to self-discovery. In time, the insight that she gains from a secret disclosed presents the opportunity for Julia to discover her inner strength. Also, the moon itself transcends all aspects of the narrative, becoming a central character in the novel. The image of the moon is a recurring, symbolic presence. A moon, hidden from view, represents Julia’s inner conflicts, buried beneath the surface, as well as her predisposition to allow the expectations of others to eclipse her self-esteem. The moon, in full view, on the other hand, embodies empowerment, for the moon’s light focuses on what is essential, what exists without distraction, and what is true. The moon’s illumination and the clarity that it imparts allow Julia to see herself as the woman she really is. The author, in her novel, Crystal Moon Rising, encourages the reader to explore the veiled world of thought and emotion in order to understand behavior. And if the reader is able to identify with Julia, then she will find satisfaction in the story’s resolution.

About the Author

Although she created a work of fiction, Diane Celeste Alexander has drawn upon her experience as a daughter, sister, friend, office worker, cat lover, artist, and, more than anything else, her experience as a woman to create the characters in her novel. The author uses these characters to personify the conflicts of daily life as well as their resolution. Ms. Alexander employs the written word to define herself in her own terms. It is also her hope that she is able to give a voice to those who have not yet learned to appreciate themselves for who they really are.